REVELLERS in Medway preparing for street party celebrations during the Queen's Golden Jubilee will not be forced to fork out for road closures.

Residents had expected to be charged £650 to close their road off for a party, but Medway Council will now foot the costs. However, neighbours who want to celebrate the event will still have to pay out £80 for a £2million liability cover and another £30 for a road closed sign.

Liberal Democrat Cllr Karen Griffin said the waiving of the road closure fee came after she confronted highways manager Mark Seed during a live radio interview. She said that after making initial inquiries to council officers, she was told that residents would have to pay the £650 fee.

She said: "I have now been told that the council had always planned to pay for the road closures, but several weeks ago I was told otherwise.

"I'm pleased for the residents because I'm sure some of them have been put off by the prospect of paying £650 to close their road.

There seems to be a general feeling of apathy towards the Jubilee and extra charges are only going to be another hindrance."

The cost-cutting boost to monarchy-lovers in Medway comes as the Government urged all local councils across the country to waive some of the charges for hosting parties.

So far only two streets in Medway, Canterbury Road and Salisbury Avenue in Rainham have been given the go-ahead to hold an open-air bash this summer.

Another 20 roads have put forward a planning application for road closure to the council and are awaiting a decision.

York Avenue in Gillingham, meanwhile, has been denied permission to host a party because the road is seen as vital for the emergency services.

The closing date for application for street parties is April 30.

Anyone wanting more information on holding outdoor events in Medway should call 01634 331399.